EDF Energy lights up cup competition

Llanelli Scarlets will open their challenge for EDF Energy Cup glory when they tackle NEC Harlequins at Stradey Park in Round 1 on Sunday, 1 October...

The Scarlets, beaten 26-10 by London Wasps at Twickenham in last season's Anglo-Welsh Cup final, go on to face tough away challenges at Newcastle Falcons and Sale Sharks in the later stages.

"We are delighted that EDF Energy are today unveiled as the new sponsors of the tournament for the next three years, a clear indication of the high regard in which this elite cross-border competition between the top teams in England and Wales is regarded," said Steve Lewis, the Welsh Rugby Union Chief Executive.

"It was disappointing that the Scarlets were the only Welsh region to qualify for the then Powergen Cup semi-finals last season and the aim must be for us to at least match England team for team in the last four this time.

"With the European tournaments - the Heineken Cup and European Challenge Cup - the Magners League and the EDF Energy Cup, our regions are each guaranteed a minimum of 29 top quality and prestigious matches, and a possible 34 if they go all the way to both a European and the EDF Energy Cup final."

While the Scarlets this season have two away fixtures, the Ospreys have clashes with Gloucester Rugby and Bristol Rugby at the Liberty Stadium and just the one trip to the West Country, to meet Bath Rugby in Round 2.

Cardiff Blues also have home advantage twice in the Pool stage, taking on holders London Wasps at the Arms Park on Saturday, 30 September, and then London Irish in Round 3 on 1 December.

But Newport Gwent Dragons have only one home tie - against Northampton Saints in Round 2 on 7 October - sandwiched by on the road matches against Leicester Tigers and Worcester Warriors.

The Wales squad met back up this morning to prepare for the clash against England - WRU TV caught up with Neil Jenkins who said the squad were under no illusions for their next task but a trip to Twickenham doesn't hold any fears for a confident Wales side.

Wales hooker Ken Owens was delighted to get the NatWest 6 Nations off to a flying start with a convincing win against Scotland, where he says the squad were determined to deliver a performance 'from minute one.'

Welsh referee Nigel Owens will create history in the opening round of the NatWest 6 Nations clash at Stade de France where France face Ireland, when he surpasses the previous record of 17 Six Nations matches held by Alain Rolland and Jonathan Kaplan, as WRU TV's Graeme Gillespie discovers

Just two days until the NatWest 6 Nations kicks off. George North takes WRU TV around the players area at Principality Stadium after going through security - which fans will have to do on Saturday. Gates open at 11.15 - don't leave it late!

Next in the series of #TheTeamRoom we listen in to the first leadership group in camp. The players were asked to nominate their peers who they wanted to represent them on the group and we hear what Warren and the players have to say.

Wales head coach Warren Gatland was in a positive frame of mind at today's NatWest 6 Nations launch but admitted the opening clash in Cardiff was a 'massive' game as everyone is talking about the rise of Scotland.